ICYMI: Sparks From Saw Ignite Fire at Buford Muffler Shop

A fire sparked by a metal-cutting tool caused extensive damage at a Buford-area muffler shop Thursday afternoon, according to Gwinnett Fire.

Firefighters responded to the shop located at 803 West Shadburn Ferry Road at 2:51 p.m. after an employee called to report the blaze, the fire department said in a news release.

No injuries were reported.

Gwinnett Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge said the caller reported a car elevated on a mechanical lift had caught on fire. The blaze was held in check by the fire sprinkler system, but sent heavy smoke billowing from the building.

“Several employees were inside the business at the time and were working on the vehicle when the fire started,” Rutledge said in the news release. “The fire appears accidental and was caused by a spark from a saw that was being used to cut metal. The spark ignited nearby fuel vapors.”

The vehicle was heavily damaged. Extensive heat and smoke were sent throughout the mechanic bay.

The fire was under control at 3:21 p.m., Rutledge said.